Thursday, October 7, 2010

Pizzelle

Pizzelle originate from the Abruzzo region of Italy and have been around since Roman times. This flat and thin waffle was usually reserved for special holidays and weddings. I should know, because my mom would literally make a hundred at a time and even more when it was time to contribute to the sweet table at someone's special event like you guessed it, a wedding or shower. The following recipe is my attempt at interpreting her original recipe with universal measurements and less gargantuan proportions. My recipe, much to mom's dismay, didn't produce the thinner version in which she takes so much pride. Regardless, you will not have any problem polishing off these beauties, especially when every Italian's favourite spread, Nutella, is sandwiched between two crispy Pizzelle.

Add the sifted flour, baking powder and cinnamon to a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl beat 6 eggs and add the oil, liqueur, anise and vanilla extract and beat to incorporate the ingredients.
Add the wet ingredients, into the dry ingredients, and beat to blend.You should obtain a silky and sticky dough as illustrated below:

Grease and pre-heat an electric pizzelle iron and drop a tablespoon of of the dough on the griddle. Cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes depending on your appliance. Remove with a spatula. Makes about 24- 4-5" pizzelle.

10 comments:

Molto bellisimi! They look amazing, especially with all that Nutella oozing out. So my next kitchen gadget is definitely going to have to be a Pizzelle Iron, don't own one yet but need one now after seeing these!

Joyce, Somehow I missed your comment, and apologize for my late response. I's so happy that the recipe brings back fond memories of those special moments with your grandmother. Thanks for taking the time to share,Anna

Tasty, I love cinnamon and, honestly, have not yet had them in pizzelle here (must be a family or specific town thing). In l'Aquila we call them ferratelle - the name changes from town to town too, but he basic concept is good. Nutella or marmalade or just plain simple. Thanks for spreading the word. J